Optimism Questions for Students Read the text describing OPTIMISM included in this document to answer these items. Please think about what you have read and write thoughtful answers. There are no right or wrong answers to some questions, which ask you to reflect on your own thought habits. 1. Describe an optimist. How does optimism compare to pessimism? 2. Do you c onsider yourself more of an optimistic thinker or pessimistic thinker? Would y our friends agree? Explain. 3. What does self-confidence h ave to do with being optimistic? 4. Why do people tend to steer clear (avoid) people who are overly pessimistic? 5. Should an optimist also be realistic? Explain why. Extension (Optional): Review the steps to becoming more optimistic, which 2 of those steps would best help you to grow your optimism? Optimism What is optimism? Do you want to improve the quality of your life? Try having an optimistic outlook. Having an optimistic way of thinking helps others to enjoy spending time with you and also helps you feel more confident, persist through challenges, and turn negative situations into chances to learn and grow. This self-confidence protects people who think optimistically from doubting themselves or fearing failure. Optimism is the habit of thinking about life positively and believing that situations will turn out for the best. A student who is thinking optimistically does not see failure as an option, but only as a learning opportunity. Optimists tend to have a growth mindset. An optimist who doesn’t make the team or the cast this time keeps practicing to make it next time after taking an honest look at his/her skills and asking for help or feedback. For example, they do not give up on a challenging math problem because they believe that they will find the right answer if they give it enough time and energy, so they rework the problem or ask for help. Having a positive and realistic view is common among optimistic students. Pessimism is the opposite of optimism. Negative consequences of pessimism include ignoring problems, avoiding taking actions that could improve your life, and missing opportunities to learn and grow. Instead of seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, pessimists keep thinking, “I’m in a tunnel, life is so dark, I’ll never get out.” In fact, studies show that pessimists are more likely to develop chronic illnesses later on in life than optimists. Pessimists often say, “I’m just being realistic.” It is important to be realistic. Optimism should not replace planning for the best, thinking, and taking positive actions toward goals. For example, it’s good to be optimistic that you will get a 1 good grade on the test, but also be realistic, study and prepare for the test. Thinking of success does not replace working for it. If you are prepared, then thinking optimistically that you will do well i s realistic. Optimists never quit. If they find themselves heading in the wrong direction in life, they make a U-turn. Optimists have confidence that they will eventually be successful. Many “famous failures” are optimists. Albert Einstein was criticized by his teachers for being mentally slow, not paying attention, and daydreaming, but he still became one of the most successful minds in our history. Optimism and health. Optimists tend to be physically healthier than pessimists. Living longer, surviving diseases, having a healthy heart and strong immune system, winning battles with cancer, and many other health issues have all been connected to the belief that one can improve their health and will have a good outcome. Pessimistic thinking has been linked to risks for severe depression, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, anxiety, sleeping problems, and problems with social interaction. Benefits of optimism: --It draws people toward you. --It is contagious. --It boosts your confidence. --Focus and productivity are improved. --Reduced stress. --Mental and physical health benefits. --Achieve more goals --Motivation --Better communication Steps to Grow Your Optimism Let go of the idea that everyone is against you or you only have bad luck. Don’t get stuck in the past. Just because something in the past didn’t work out doesn’t mean that the future will hold the same for you. Don’t think of yourself as a victim. Instead start thinking of how you can change things in your life. This may mean being honest with yourself and working hard to get what you want. Have positive thoughts, such as: “This is possible,” and “With hard work I know I can accomplish this.” Get rid of negative thoughts like, “Things never go right for me,” and “No one cares about how I feel.” Have friends that are self-confident and think positively. Try to focus on the “big picture,” don’t let a small disappointment turn you into a pessimist. Have goals. Goals tend to move us in positive directions. Show appreciation for the positive influences in your life like your family and friends. Find an optimistic quote or saying and keep it with you and refer to it from time to time. When faced with a difficult or challenging situation focus on a positive outcome instead of a negative one. 2 .